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My stepson recently split up with his partner who he has an 11 month daughter with. The mother has a history of mental health problems, which we've tried to help her with, taking her to the gp, arranging counseling etc. She was kicked out by her mother at 16 after drunkenly attacking, and had been sectioned twice for trying to kill her.
All this obviously came out after he fell for her, and we've given her a lot of leeway because of her past. But things have come to a head now and he's had enough of her abuse. Five months ago she had an 'episode' where an old woman was in the room telling her to kill herself, my stepson and their baby. An ambulance took to there local hospital, but halfway there she insisted on being let out because she was worried going to the hospital would have social services taking the baby away. The following week she attacked him for no reason after a night out. She tried to strangle him, bit half his ear off, and again scratched him trying to get his phone as he called the police for help. Other than to hold her off he didn't lay a finger on her, and showed an amazing level of restraint which even the police commented on.
He forgave her after she promised to get help etc. But again this week she attacked him, wrecking the living room ripping his shirt and chain, and scratching him. This time he managed to push her out the front door before she did anything else. It finally looks as if he's had enough, and to be honest he's only stuck around this long because he's worried about losing contact with his daughter.
She's now saying that he can't see his daughter and will have to go to court. Our concern is the safety of or grandaughter.
Given her history what would be the chances of getting sole custody? We don't want to cut her out completely, but we have real concerns about her safety and general welfare.
What a dreadful worry for you as grandparents and the father. It would appear immediate emergency action is required.
I know there will be expert advice forthcoming from a number of people on this site to help and advise you.
I would certainly recommend contacting the authorities, Social Services, NSPCC and possibly the child Health Visitor.
It's a matter of police record that she attacked him, why didn't they charge her with assault? Did he report the latest incident to the police?
Recording incidents is very important in situations like this. As it can help your case.
If you feel that the situation is serious and the child is at serious risk, he could apply for an urgent Child Arrangements Order for the child to live with him, but proof is key to success in such cases.
Best of luck
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